Primary (endemic) vs.
opportunistic invasive mycoses
Primary infections
Can develop even without underlying immunocompromise; more severe in setting of T-cell mediated immunosuppression (e.g., AIDS)
“Endemic fungal pathogens”- Histoplasmosis, Blastomycosis, Coccidioidomycosis
- Molds in the environment- yeast at 37°C
Endemic areas changing with global warming?
Opportunistic fungal pathogens
Infection in the setting of impaired host immune responses or when inoculated into sterile sites
Can disseminate to internal organs and the central nervous system
Associated with high mortality if not diagnosed and treated early